There are many variants of forging mokume gane rings. The seamless rings include deep-drawn rings (series Flats) and rings, which are manufactured using the splice-stretch process. Any technique is also possible for rings with a joint, but with this variant there is always a gap, which also leads to a small interruption in the pattern.
What are the pros and cons of each method:
Seamless
PRO:
- No pattern break
cons:
- big battle of materials. Much more material is needed.
- Patterning of the surface is less possible.
- Higher costs – materials and labour.
With joint
PRO:
- more sustainable. The material can be used better and there is less waste that has to be separated again.
- Lively patterns possible
- Costs are significantly lower
cons:
- Pattern interruption at the joint.